About the Guest(s): Paula Kluth is a nationally recognized author, speaker, and consultant specializing in inclusive education and autism. With several acclaimed publications to her name, including "Don't We Already Do Inclusion?" and "Universal Design Daily," Paula is an influential voice in educational reform. Her work focuses on helping educators create effective and welcoming classrooms for all students, particularly those with disabilities.

Episode Summary: In this thought-provoking episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas welcomes back the illustrious educator and author, Paula Kluth. Known for her significant contributions to inclusive education, Paula delves deep into her latest work, "Universal Design Daily," while also embarking on an enlightening discussion about the dynamic nature of teaching and the continuous evolution of educational practices. Listeners are in for a treat as the episode traverses the intricate landscape of Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and its crucial impact on holistic student engagement.

Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is a recurring theme throughout the conversation, highlighting its intrinsic value in fostering a more inclusive and engaging classroom environment. Paula explains how UDL not only boosts student engagement but also accommodates variability and uniqueness in learning. Tim Villegas and Paula discuss the practical application of UDL, offering actionable strategies that educators can implement immediately. Moreover, they address common teacher concerns regarding the shift towards UDL, emphasizing the necessity of adaptability in teaching methods to ensure every student finds a pathway to success.

Transcript: https://c80acee1-5663-46ff-a2d6-b4cf328e0b7f.usrfiles.com/ugd/c80ace_22038a7f9c294d25836aaab837ad33c6.pdf

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding UDL: Universal Design for Learning is a framework that enhances educational practices by providing multiple ways for students to engage, learn, and demonstrate their knowledge.
• Teacher Adaptability: Success in UDL requires teachers to be flexible and open to change, ensuring that teaching methods evolve to meet diverse student needs.
• Engagement and Compliance: Paula underscores the importance of genuine student engagement over mere compliance; a well-behaved classroom doesn’t necessarily equate to an engaged one.
• Practical Strategies: The episode offers specific, easy-to-implement strategies for teachers to incorporate UDL into their classrooms, emphasizing routine yet flexible approaches.
• Professional Development: Paula recommends continuous learning and peer observations as effective methods for understanding and applying UDL principles.

Resources:

Paula's Website: https://inclusionrules.com/

MCIE: https://mcie.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Kristin Wiens is an inclusion coach based in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. She is the creator of Northstar Paths, an initiative that provides educational content through stop-motion animation, graphics, and illustrations focused on inclusion, universal design for learning, self-regulation, and mindfulness. Kristin is the author of the children’s book “My Gratitude Jar,” and collaborates with renowned children's entertainer Raffi, designing online courses and graphics that promote his child-honoring philosophy.

Episode Summary: In this enlightening episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, we host Kristin Wiens, an impassioned educator and inclusion coach from Victoria, British Columbia. Kristin is celebrated for her innovative approach to promoting inclusive education through striking visuals and stop-motion animation via her initiative Northstar Paths. From the creation of her educational content to her substantial impact on teachers and students alike, this episode offers comprehensive insights into the tools and philosophies that drive inclusion forward.

Kristin opens up about the origins and milestones of Northstar Paths, emphasizing the importance of visually engaging resources in bridging understanding gaps among educators about students with disabilities, focusing on important topics like behavior as communication and self-regulation. Through her unique blend of creativity and pedagogy, she shares effective strategies, triumphs, and challenges faced in advocating for inclusive education. The episode also delves into how Kristin’s illustrations have transformed professional development for teachers and community education, showcasing her collaborative work and future aspirations.

Transcript: https://c80acee1-5663-46ff-a2d6-b4cf328e0b7f.usrfiles.com/ugd/c80ace_2a7fd2e37feb4be7a4de0c61e336c0c7.pdf

Key Takeaways:

• Visual Learning Tools: Kristin Wiens discusses the power of visuals and stop-motion animations in conveying complex inclusive education concepts.
• Understanding Behavior: The conversation sheds light on viewing behavior as a form of communication and the significant role of understanding underlying causes.
• Inclusive Education Strategies: Kristin shares how structured time and thoughtful planning can bridge gaps in resources and support.
• Professional Development: The episode emphasizes the importance of dedicated time for teachers to plan, collaborate, and integrate inclusive practices effectively.
• Passion and Creativity: Insights into how combining creativity with educational passion can lead to innovative and impactful teaching approaches.

Resources:

Kristin Wiens on Twitter: https://twitter.com/kwiens62

Northstar Paths Website: http://northstarpaths.com/

Long Story Short YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/northstarpaths

Stuart Shanker’s Self-Reg: https://self-reg.ca/

MCIE: https://www.mcie.org

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Noah Jack is a talented singer-songwriter hailing from Park Ridge, Illinois. Diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder, Noah's unique journey in music began when he could hum at age four before he could speak. Currently studying music at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee, Noah has recently released his heartfelt single, "Neighborhood," which is a tribute to his supportive hometown community. His upcoming EP, "All in the Family," is set to release in January, with each track dedicated to a member of his family.

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Think Inclusive Podcast, host Tim Villegas interviews Noah Jack, an inspiring musician on the autism spectrum. Noah shares the journey behind his new single "Neighborhood" and his passion for music that began at a very young age. He provides listeners with a glimpse into his life in Park Ridge, Illinois, and his current endeavors at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. The interview explores the deep support from Noah's community and family, which has been crucial in his development and success as a musician.

Noah discusses the process of creating "Neighborhood," a reflective piece that serves as his thank you letter to his supportive community. He highlights the technical aspects of recording the song and the emotional journey tied to its production. Noah also shares his experiences of growing up with autism spectrum disorder, the acceptance he found in his community, and his hopes for using music as a medium to foster understanding and inclusion. The conversation concludes with Noah's aspirations for his career and his desire to give back through charitable initiatives centered around music therapy.

Transcript: https://c80acee1-5663-46ff-a2d6-b4cf328e0b7f.usrfiles.com/ugd/c80ace_44d408ae5a4a4b2caa654bd977317787.pdf

Key Takeaways:

• Musical Beginnings: Noah could hum tunes at age four before he could speak, demonstrating an early connection to music.
• Community Support: The community of Park Ridge played a significant role in Noah's development, providing support and acceptance throughout his life.
• Recording "Neighborhood": The song evolved over two and a half years and involved collaboration with friends and fellow students at Belmont University.
• Autism Awareness: Noah emphasizes the importance of acceptance and understanding towards individuals on the autism spectrum.
• Future Aspirations: Noah aspires to blend his musical career with charitable efforts, particularly focusing on music therapy for individuals with disabilities.

Stream Noah’s single "Neighborhood" https://soundcloud.com/sirnoahjack

MCIE: https://www.mcie.org

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Dr. Rob Horner is a Professor Emeritus of Special Education at the University of Oregon and the Director of the Technical Assistance Center on Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). He boasts a 25-year history in research grants, systems change related to school reform, and positive behavior support. With over 150 professional papers and six texts to his name, Dr. Horner's expertise is widely recognized in the fields of applied behavior analysis (ABA) and positive behavioral interventions.

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Dr. Rob Horner, a prominent figure in the special education and behavioral analysis community, delves deep into the interconnected worlds of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Recorded in Marietta, Georgia, Tim Villegas hosts an enriching dialogue exploring the fundamental principles of human behavior, the practical applications of ABA, and how these methodologies contribute to inclusive education and supporting students with challenging behaviors.

The conversation unpacks the theoretical and practical underpinnings of ABA, describing it as the study of behavior patterns and their interactions with the environment. Dr. Horner explains how PBIS extends ABA principles within a broader context to create supportive and sustainable environments in schools. Throughout the episode, concerns regarding the historical applications of ABA, such as its association with compliance and aversive techniques, are discussed and clarified. Dr. Horner emphasizes that PBIS is about designing effective environments to promote positive, socially valued outcomes for all students.

Transcript: https://3bd6e695-b492-4878-afa9-f79d8b09e0c4.usrfiles.com/ugd/3bd6e6_7fcb2acda9e0480da5e01864219cc4a6.pdf

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding ABA: ABA focuses on the study and application of human behavior principles to solve socially important problems.
• PBIS Framework: PBIS uses ABA principles but adds a broader organizational system to achieve sustainable, school-wide positive outcomes.
• Classroom Strategies: Effective classroom management involves teaching behavioral expectations, routines, and providing positive reinforcement.
• Addressing Behavior: Addressing challenging behaviors requires understanding the function of behavior and tailoring strategies to fit context and individual needs.
• Inclusivity in Education: Sustainable, data-driven practices and continuous improvement processes help create inclusive and supportive school environments.

Resources:

PBIS Website: https://www.pbis.org/

MCIE: https://www.mcie.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Zachary Fenell is a speaker, marathoner, and author who actively champions disability advocacy. Fenell, known as the "Cerebral Palsy Vigilante," uses multiple platforms to dispel misconceptions and inspire others to see possibilities beyond their circumstances. He has written two notable books: Off Balanced, a memoir about living with cerebral palsy, and Rock Realities, which compiles his interviews with Indie and Alternative Rock musicians. Fenell completed a full marathon despite the challenges posed by his condition, further cementing his role as an inspirational figure within the disability community.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Zachary Fenell, also known as the Cerebral Palsy Vigilante. Zachary, a passionate disability advocate, author, and marathoner, shares his extraordinary journey of training for and completing a full marathon despite having cerebral palsy. They discuss the challenges he faced, his meticulous training regimen, and the broader implications of his achievement for disability rights and perceptions.

Throughout the conversation, Zachary Fenell talks about his motivation, inspired by author John W. Quinn, and how he overcame numerous physical and logistical challenges during his marathon training. He provides insights into the specific accommodations he required, including the use of a cane and special orthotics. Moreover, he touches on the significance of being called an inspiration and the importance of respecting personal limitations while pushing for greater inclusivity. The episode closes with Fenell discussing his future plans, including another marathon, a potential new memoir, and his ongoing contributions to Think Inclusive.

Transcript: https://3bd6e695-b492-4878-afa9-f79d8b09e0c4.usrfiles.com/ugd/3bd6e6_ae97bb4df9b148589f692e754ae280af.pdf

Key Takeaways:

• Motivation and Inspiration: Fenell was inspired by author John W. Quinn and his determination to do something physically challenging, despite his condition.
• Training with Cerebral Palsy: His training regimen included using a cane for balance and special orthotics to compensate for leg length discrepancy, highlighting the need for specific accommodations.
• Marathon Experience: Completing the marathon took 11 hours and 40 minutes, showcasing his grit and the importance of pacing and respecting one's physical limits.
• Inclusion and Accessibility: The Towpath Marathon was accommodating by allowing early starts, emphasizing the need for inclusive practices in events.
• Future Aspirations: Fenell aims to run another marathon and write a new memoir detailing his marathon journey to inspire others to tackle seemingly impossible challenges.

Resources:

Zachary Fenell's memoir Off Balanced https://www.amazon.com/Off-Balanced-Zachary-Fenell-ebook/dp/B006OIT9BC

Website: http://www.zacharyfenell.com/

MCIE: https://mcie.org/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): John Spencer is a professor in Oregon, an accomplished speaker, and an author known for his works "Empower" and "Launch." He has an extensive background in teaching middle school for over a decade and currently educates future teachers at the university level. John is passionate about empowering students through the maker mindset and design thinking, believing in the potential of all learners, including those with disabilities. His approach revolves around enhancing student engagement and ownership of their learning experience.

Episode Summary: Join Tim Villegas in this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast as he sits down with John Spencer, a distinguished professor, speaker, and author. Broadcasting from Marietta, Georgia, Tim explores with John the profound impact of student engagement and the maker mindset in education, highlighting ways to empower ALL students, including those with disabilities, through innovative teaching practices.

In this engaging conversation, John Spencer shares his rich journey from teaching middle school to shaping future educators at the university level. He delves into his books "Empower" and "Launch," particularly focusing on the design thinking process, its application in K-12 education, and how it transforms the classroom into a dynamic learning environment. John addresses common concerns educators face, such as managing a classroom with diverse needs, balancing curriculum requirements, and overcoming the traditional fixation on compliance. Emphasizing the importance of creativity and student agency, he provides valuable insights and inspirational stories of success that span his teaching career.

Transcript: https://3bd6e695-b492-4878-afa9-f79d8b09e0c4.usrfiles.com/ugd/3bd6e6_cf8bb23155914edf8fa4a3d3203998b7.pdf

Key Takeaways:

• Design Thinking in Education: John outlines the LAUNCH framework, a design thinking process to foster creativity, problem-solving, and ownership in learning among students.
• Inclusivity Through Empowerment: Strategies for integrating students with disabilities into design thinking projects, ensuring all students are engaged and empowered.
• Shifting Focus from Compliance to Engagement: The necessity of moving beyond rote compliance to create a student-driven, engaging learning environment.
• Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change: Practical advice for educators on managing classrooms with diverse needs, creatively adhering to curriculum maps, and integrating project-based learning.
• Vision for Future Education: John envisions a future where education is project-based, authentic, interconnected, and inclusive, with policy changes supporting this transformation.

Resources:

John Spencer’s Website: https://spencerauthor.com/

MCIE: https://www.mcie.org

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

About the Guest(s): Arielle Hobbs is the founder of The Lion League, a nonprofit organization that focuses on promoting inclusion in schools. She is a passionate advocate for inclusive education and has dedicated her work to creating a curriculum that teaches students how to be more inclusive with their disabled peers. Arielle is a thinker and writer who found her purpose when she had to fight for her son's right to equal opportunities. Through The Lion League, she aims to change the way schools approach inclusion and create a more accepting and understanding environment for all students.

Episode Summary: In this episode of the Think Inclusive Podcast, Tim Villegas interviews Arielle Hobbs, the founder of The Lion League. They discuss the importance of inclusion in schools and how The Lion League is working to create a more inclusive environment for students with disabilities. Arielle shares her personal experience of fighting for her son's rights and how it led her to start The Lion League. She explains the unique approach of the organization, which focuses on teaching students about inclusion and disability to foster natural friendships and understanding. Arielle also discusses the different ways schools can implement The Lion League's curriculum and the impact it can have on students.

Transcript: https://otter.ai/u/GpN5FD3lMLE9tdqgSjWaH11RS20

Key Takeaways:

• The Lion League is a free school-based program that aims to teach students about inclusion and how to be more intentional about including their disabled peers.
• The organization's curriculum is designed for elementary, middle, and high school students, with each age group receiving tailored lessons on inclusion and disability.
• The curriculum includes action items for students to apply what they have learned and encourages them to challenge themselves to be more inclusive.
• Schools can implement The Lion League's curriculum in various ways, such as after-school clubs, school-wide programs, or as part of existing leadership groups.
• The organization promotes full inclusion and encourages schools to have students with disabilities actively participate in The Lion League's activities.

Resources:

Arielle Hobbs: https://staugustinecounseling.com/arielle

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.